Old World Christmas Ornaments

The Merck Family's Old World Christmas was founded by Tim and Beth Merck, a couple who shared a special love for Christmas, especially its rich traditions in the European style. The Mercks are credited with revitalizing the art of mouth-blown fine glass ornaments as a result of their reintroducing figural designs to the United States in 1979. Today, The Merck Family's Old World Christmas is one of the leading distributors of the world's most extensive and best-loved collections of mouth-blown figural glass ornaments, vintage style night lights and nostalgic greeting cards. Each figural glass ornament produced for The Merck Family's Old World Christmas is hand crafted in age-old tradition using the same techniques that originated in the 1800's. Molten glass is mouth-blown into finely carved molds available only to the Merck Family's Old World Christmas, before a hot solution of liquid silver is poured inside. The ornaments are then hand-painted and glittered in a series of labor-intensive steps to achieve the beautiful creations. Price is for one ornament.

SHIPPING CHARGE FOR ORNAMENTS IS $6.00 FOR 1-2 ORNAMENTS AND $1.00 MORE FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ONE. ADJUSTMENTS WILL NOT BE REFLECTED ON YOUR INVOICE RECEIPT. *** Does not include box sets. Shipping is as shown on invoice.

The legend of Santa Claus is derived from the European figure of St. Nicholas and American writers who wrote children's poems in the 19th century. Santa Claus became the folk hero all children dream about on Christmas Eve.

Dogs selflessly give humans their unconditional love and loyalty. Throughout history, dogs have been faithful friends and workmates, even giving their lives to protect or rescue their owners. No wonder dogs are considered "man's best friend"

Burning a Yule Log is a tradition celebrated in many countries around Christmastime. Since fire serves as a source of warmth and light during the cold darkness of winter, a special large log is burned to symbolize rebirth in the new year, and to remind us of the heavenly light that shone at Christ's birth.

The Turkey symbolizes altruism and self-sacrifice. It is the centerpiece of today's Thanksgiving dinner, which commemorates the first Thanksgiving in 1621, when the Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a harvest meal. Ben Franklin championed the turkey as our national symbol, but the bald eagle won!

A Police Car is recognized as a symbol of authority and of the officers who use it. Toy makers often turned real-life items into toys for children, so they could learn as they played. With a toy Police Car, a child could imagine being a brave officer working to protect citizens.

Long ago, when toys were scarce and neighbors could be miles away, children looked forward to snowfalls with great anticipation. This wonderful gift from heaven afforded them the opportunity to create a new companion - their very own snowman.

Bear are symbols of strength and bravery, and non are more fierce than a mother protecting her cubs. Most of the time however, bears are gentle and good-natured and can actually be quite playful. Because bears hibernate, they signify resurrection and the power of life over death.

Cottages represent the heritage and culture of the glassblowers. They frequently created images that reflected their day to day lives. Ornaments were proudly styled after the homes in which they lived. This ornament is especially designed to capture the love and charm of a new home, and makes a perfect gift or keepsake.

Halloween has its origins in the ancient festival of Samhain, the Celtic New Year, when spirits were allowed to return to earth to visit. Christianity incorporated this into All Hallows Eve, Oct. 31, prior to All Saints Day. The Irish brought Halloween to America in the 1840's, with the tradition of dressing in costumes and playing pranks in the hope of keeping evil spirits away.

The legend of Santa Claus is derived from the European figure St. Nicholas and American writers who wrote children's poems in the 19th century. Santa Claus became the jolly man dad in red - the folk hero all children dream about on Christian Eve. Santa Claus embodies childhood innocence and magical delight.

Legend says the first Christmas Tree was created by Martin Luther. Walking in the forest one Christmas Eve, he was inspired by snow-covered trees reflecting moonlight and twinkling stars showing through their branches. So he cut a small fir tree, took it home and decorated it simply with candles for his children.

Throughout the year, Tomte protects farmers' families and homes from misfortune. He visits all Swedish homes on Christmas Eve afternoon and brings gifts to good children. He is part of the magic of Christmas since he is Sweden's version of Santa Claus!

The legend of Santa Claus is derived from the European figure St. Nicholas and American writers who wrote children's poems in the 19th century. Santa Claus became the jolly man dad in red - the folk hero all children dream about on Christian Eve. Santa Claus embodies childhood innocence and magical delight.

Long ago, when toys were scarce and neighbors could be miles away, children looked forward to snowfalls with great anticipation. This wonderful gift from heaven gave them the opportunity to create a new companion - their very own snowman!

Gingerbread Houses depict one of the favorite traditions of the holiday season - sweets! The popular custom of creating elaborate little houses made entirely out of gingerbread, candies, and sweets, started years ago and continues as a favorite holiday activity today.

Nestled in quaint little villages, cottages represent the heritage and culture of the glass ornament artisans. They often created images that reflected their day to day lives. Therefore, cottage ornaments were often styled after the humble homes in which people lived and worked.

Snowshoes were developed thousands of years ago to travel by foot in areas covered in snow. Snowshoes work by distributing a person's weight over a larger area so that the person's foot does not sink into the snow. Today snowshoeing is an exciting and fun way to enjoy the outdoors.

Santa Claus is the jolly man dad in red - the folk hero all children dream about on Christmas Eve. Here he apears in the shape of a nighttime star, wearing his fur-trimmed red hat. As a famous song says, "He sees you when your sleeping...!"

Many years ago, log cabins provided shelter on the American Frontier as settlers moved west. In fact, our 16th President, "Honest Abe" Lincoln, was raised in a log cabin. Today the Log Cabin ornament represents the pioneer spirit, hard work, and the pleasures of the simple life.

With its balance of sweet and tart flavors, the Margarita is a popular cocktail. Its origins remain a mystery shrouded in many legends. Most involve a beautiful woman named Margarita and the bartender who created the drink in her memory. February 22 is National Margarita Day.

Considered to be "the word of God" by many religions, the Bible is a collection of 66 books written by more than forty authors in over sixteen centuries. Telling the stories of God's interactions in human history, it is the world's all-time best selling and most translated book. Price is for one only.

In the Middle Ages, guests brought sweet buns that were placed in a pile over which the bride and groom kissed. The taller the pile, the more prosperous the couple. This evolved into the tiered cake we know today. The Wedding Cake ornament serves as a keepsake of the special day or anniversary.

According to legend, bells rang throughout the world when Christ was born. Traditionally, bells have been used throughout Europe and America to ring in the Christmas Season. Bell ornaments symbolize the joy and merriment of the Christmas holidays.

Poinsettias have long been associated with Christmas due to their miraculous appearance one Christmas Eve, while star ornaments represent the Star of Bethlehem seen that night. This beautiful glass Poinsettia Star ornament combines these cherished holiday symbols.

In the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas," Two Turtle Doves symbolize the Old and New Testaments. Years ago, the song served as a secret means of teaching English Catholics the basics of their religion. Today this carol has lost many of its old connotations and is now a merry standard of the holiday season.

The arrival of a baby is one of life's most wonderful and anticipated events. Painted pink for a girl or blue for a boy, this charming glass Pacifier ornament is a cute and long-lasting keepsake to commemorate a special birth or a baby's first Christmas.

The arrival of a baby is one of life's most wonderful and anticipated events. With a pink top for a girl, or a blue top for a boy, this charming glass Baby Bottle ornament is a cute and long-lasting keepsake to commemorate a special birth or a baby's first Christmas.

Long ago, when toys were scarce and neighbors could be miles away, children looked forward to snowfalls with great anticipation. This wonderful gift from heaven gave them the opportunity to create a new companion - their very own snowman!

"Gone Fishing" are an angler's favorite words. The Walleye is one of the most popular sport fish. However, fishing isn't just the thrill of a tight line with a strong fish on, but a sport that teaches patience, respect for the environment, and gives an insight into the value of life.

Dogs selflessly give humans their unconditional love and loyalty. Throughout history, dogs have been faithful friends and workmates, even giving their lives to protect or rescue their owners. No wonder dogs are considered "man's best friend."

Fish are a common thread connecting numerous stories in the Bible, and today their symbol focuses on the religious origins of Christmas. Fish signify Christ's miracles and, like Christ, provide nourishment and sustain life. Fish represent the messages of the Christmas season - renewal of life, rejuvenation, and love. Price is for one only.

Symbols of happiness and joy, birds are regarded as a necessity on the Christmas Tree. The male cardinal, with its bright red coloring, is popular at Christmas-time. The female's feathers are lighter and yellow-tinged. Here a happy pair symbolize togetherness at the holidays.

The Butterfly is a symbol of immortality. Since it evolves from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis, and then emerges as a butterfly from its cocoon, it represents the soul and the cycle of rebirth. A pair of butterflies signifies marital happiness.

As devoted companions, dogs are loving, loyal and intelligent, and as puppies they are also playful and adorable. These delightful hand-painted and glittered glass puppies have become playmates, and will stay forever young as a delightful keepsake for your tree.

Rabbits are very shy and frail animals. Having no natural means of protecting itself, the rabbit is therefore dependent on the kindness of man and other animals for its survival. At Christmastime the rabbit represents the renewal of this faith in others to provide guidance, protection, and kindness. Price is for one only.

Dogs selflessly give humans their unconditional love and loyalty. Throughout history, dogs have been faithful friends and workmates, even giving their lives to protect or rescue their owners. No wonder dogs are considered "man's best friend."

As good companions, cats are affectionate and intelligent, and also often independent. But as kittens, they are frisky, friendly, and adorable. This hand-painted and glittered glass kitten will stay forever young as cute keepsake for your Christmas tree. Price is for one only.

Golden Retrievers are lovable and intelligent dogs with lots of charm. They are great sport dogs or guide dogs due to their patience, obedience, and willingness to learn. Golden Retrievers are gentle, loyal and fun-loving, which makes them great family pets.

Dogs selflessly give humans their unconditional love and loyalty. Throughout history, dogs have been faithful friends and workmates, even giving their lives to protect or rescue their owners. No wonder dogs are considered "man's best friend."

Known for its playfulness and bushy tail, the squirrel is found on every continent except Australia and Antarctica. Its tail can be used for balance, as a form of parachute when falling from a high tree, and as a blanket in cold weather.

When the first fawn was born, its mother asked the Creator to find a way to protect her gentle and fragile offspring. So, God came to the forest and painted spots on the special coat for the baby to wear. From that day forward, as long as it remains still, the fawn's spotted coat hides it from enemies.

Known for its playfulness and bushy tail, the squirrel is found on every continent except for Australia and Antarctica. Its tail can be used for balance, as a form of parachute when falling from a high tree, or as a blanket in cold weather.

The traditional and beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, it was delicately hand-painted and glittered for you to enjoy and cherish as a holiday heirloom.

Many years ago, Chinese emperors kept rare animals within their palace gardens, and the most treasured were the pandas. The Chinese poet Bai Joyo wrote that the panda had magical powers which could ward off evil and natural disasters, and prevent disease. Today, pandas are still well-loved and extremely rare.

Fish are a common thread connecting numerous stories in the Bible, and today their symbol focuses on the religious origins of Christmas. Fish signify Christ's miracles and, like Christ, provide nourishment and sustain life. Fish represent the messages of the Christmas season - renewal of life, rejuvenation, and love.

With their distinctive black and white markings, Orcas are one of the most easily recognized marine mammals. Although referred to as whales, they are actually the largest members of the dolphin family. Native cultures have long held Orcas in high esteem, believing them to be divine messengers.

In the story "The Tortoise and the Hare", turtles show us that slow and steady wins the race. Since turtles carry their homes on their backs, they are at home anywhere! When threatened, turtles can withdrawn into their shells to protect themselves. Turtle ornaments remind us of the security that our hearth and home offer.

Frogs have long denoted good luck in business. Since a frog only travels forward, he is always progressing and as such he represents a prosperous future. So a frog ornament is often given as a gift at graduations, weddings, or to someone beginning a new business venture.

The Yorkshire Terrier is named for the English city where it originated and was used to catch rats in clothing mills. This toy breed is surprisingly bold given its size. Energetic and clever, the "Yorkie" is a popular companion with a big personality in a small body.

"Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse!" declares the famous poem, "The Night Before Christmas." However, this tiny mouse has managed to find his way to the kitchen and help himself to a sweet treat. After all, Christmas is for everyone. Price is for one only.

Birds are symbols of happiness and joy, so they are regarded as a necessity on the Christmas tree. Glassblowers often kept wild birds during the winter months since the sound of the gas flame in the workshop prompted the birds to sing. Then when spring arrived, the birds returned to freedom.

Beautifully marked in brilliant black and white. Loons prefer secluded North American Lakes and are excellent swimmers that can stay underwater for long periods. They are solitary , reclusive, and have a haunting call. To many, Loons symbolize wilderness and solitude.

The Grasshopper is a creature that thrives in warm weather and reminds us to enjoy the delights of summer. Even though it is portrayed as irresponsible in Aesop's fable "The Grasshopper and the Ant", the Grasshopper is considered to be a symbol of abundance and good luck.

With their distinctive black and white coloring and awkward waddle, penguins look like little comedians wearing tuxedos. Although they live in the Antarctic, they are considered to be Santa's friends since these playful birds favor snow and ice.

Jack O'Lanterns come from the Irish legend of 'Stingy Jack', a man so mean the devil wouldn't let him into hell. He was forced to roam the earth using a carved turnip with a piece of coal for a lantern and was called 'Jack of the Lantern.' Thus began the carving of pumpkins as Jack O'Lanterns to place in windows to scare away evil spirits.

For centuries, coffee has been a favorite beverage around the world. In today's fast-paced culture, "coffee-to-go" has become increasingly popular. Now to the delight of coffee drinkers, many drive-thru venders offer premium coffee and espresso beverages in a timely and convenient fashion.

Hanging a stocking by the fireplace became popular in the 1800s. Legend has it that St. Nicholas tossed bags of gold down the chimney into stocking drying by the fire that belonged to three poor sisters who lacked dowries. Today, children still hang stockings hoping for a Christmas surprise.

Nutcrackers were first carved by commoners as a joke because it was considered fun to make a little wooden king or soldier do the menial work of cracking the tough nuts. Today, nutcrackers are often associated with the Christmas holidays due to their whimsical nature and the very popular Nutcracker Suite Ballet.

This character from the Nutcracker Suite Ballet comes to life in Clara's dream. The fanciful clash of the Nutcracker and his troops against the Mouse King and his followers is one of the highlights of the Christmastime ballet which has charmed generations.

Long ago, when toys were scarce and neighbors could be miles away, children looked forward to snowfalls with great anticipation. This wonderful gift from heaven gave them the opportunity to create a new companion - their very own snowman!

Long ago, when toys were scarce and neighbors could be miles away, children looked forward to snowfalls with great anticipation. This wonderful gift from heaven gave them the opportunity to create a new companion - their very own snowman!

The Wedding Heart combines the most powerful symbols of love - the heart, roses, and rings. Entwined, the rings are round-shaped circles having no end that symbolize mutual and everlasting love. When exchanged, they are outward signs of fidelity, trust, and true devotion.

When the lakes and ponds freeze over in the winter, one of the most popular activities is ice-skating. Who can forget the excitement of Christmas morning and discovering a beautiful pair of skates under the tree? This ornament makes a fun gift for anyone who loves to skate.

One of the most dearly loved animals is the Teddy Bear, who has provided years of comfort and steadfast companionship to many a young owner. From the Cinnamon Bear to Winnie-the-Pooh, Teddy Bears live in literature and in the hearts of even the oldest children.

When the lakes and ponds freeze over in the winter, one of the most popular activities is ice-skating. Since skates are only used in pairs, the Ice Skate is considered a "friendship ornament." Two ornaments, one for each special friend, signify a perfect match or pair.

One of the most popular team sports, Hockey was invented in the mid-1800s in Canada. Played on ice, it requires speed, strength, stamina, great skating ability and fearlessness. The glass Hockey Skates ornament makes a fun gift for any player or fan.

An ice cram sundae is a wonderful treat, however, if it is not enjoyed quickly, it soon melts and disappears. This non-edible glass Ice Cream Sundae ornament reminds us to enjoy and appreciate what we have today because it may be gone tomorrow.

Hanging a stocking by the fireplace became popular in the 1800s. Legend has it that St. Nicholas tossed bags of gold down the chimney into stockings drying by the fire that belonged to three poor sisters who lacked dowries. Today, children still hang stockings hoping for a Christmas surprise.

One of the most popular team sports, Hockey was invented in the mid-1800s in Canada. Played on ice, it requires speed, strength, stamina, great skating ability and fearlessness. This glass Hockey Puck ornament makes a fun gift for any fan or player of the sport.

This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many brightly colored lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy.

This glass Soccer Ball ornament makes a great fift for any sports enthusiast. It was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many brightly colored lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy.

Hearts have long been associated with love and Valentine's Day. The heart is also a symbol of the love of Christ, whose birth we celebrate at Christmastime. The glass heart ornament is the perfect combination of both these celebrations.

Hearts have long been associated with love and Valentine's Day. The heart is also a symbol of the love of Christ, whose birth we celebrate at Christmastime. The glass heart ornament is the perfect combination of both these celebrations.

Beginning in the cathedrals and monasteries of Europe, a system of musical notation was developed from the ninth to the 18th century to preserve the accuracy of music. With an established set of symbols for the notes, chords, and dynamics, your holiday carols will always be remembered and enjoyed.

This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand-painted with many brightly colored lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy.

Camping is a very popular outdoor activity. Cooking and telling stories around the fire is a favorite part of the experience. This little glass Campfire Coffee Pot ornament makes a great gift for any camping enthusiast.

Hearts have long been associated with love and Valentine's Day. The heart is also a symbol of the love of Christ, whose birth we celebrate at Christmastime. The glass heart ornament is the perfect combination of both these celebrations.

One of the most popular figures associated with Halloween is the Witch. Her pointy black hat, dark cape, old broomstick, and black cat make her easy to recognize. Her name comes from the Saxon word wicca, meaning wise one. Today, she is a traditional favorite at Halloween costume parties and with young trick-or-treaters.

Riding a personal watercraft is an activity enjoyed on lakes, oceans and large rivers. It is a fun and exciting way to explore and enjoy the scenery. This unique glass Personal Watercraft ornament makes a great gift for any enthusiast of the sport.

Riding a four wheeler is a popular outdoor activity and a great way to navigate over rough terrain. It is a fun and exciting way to explore and enjoy the scenery. This glass Four Wheeler ornament makes a great gift for any enthusiast or sportsman.

This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many brightly colored lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy.

The small drum ornament recalls the legend of the little drummer boy who traveled to Bethlehem to give the Christ Child the only gift he could - a song played on his drum. This ornament reminds us that humble gifts given with great love are the best.

Legend says the first Christmas Tree was created by Martin Luther. Walking in the forest on Christmas Eve, he was inspired by snow-covered trees reflecting moonlight and twinkling stars showing through their branches. So he cut a small fir tree, took it home and decorated it simply with candles for his children.

Long ago when parents decorated the Christmas tree, they hung the pickle ornament last, hiding it in the green boughs. When the children were allowed to view the tree, they began searching for the pickle ornament because the first to find it would receive an extra gift from St. Nicholas for being the most observant child.

Long ago when parents decorated the Christmas tree, they hung the pickle ornament last, hiding it in the green boughs. When the children were allowed to view the tree, they began searching for the pickle ornament because the first to find it would receive an extra gift from St. Nicholas for being the most observant.

Camping is very popular outdoor activity. Cooking or telling stories around a crackling fire is a favorite part of the experience. This beautiful glass ornament makes a great gift for any camping enthusiast.

The legend of Santa Claus is derived from the European figure St. Nicholas and American writers who wrote children's poems in the 19th century. Santa Claus became the jolly man clad in red - the fold hero all children dream about on Christmas Eve.

Baseball has been exciting its fans for more than 100 years. From the playground to the high school field, to the ballpark stadium, baseball is one of the most popular sports in America. In fact, it is referred to as our "national game" and "America's Favorite Pastime".

The legend of Santa Claus is derived from the European figure St. Nicholas, who was generous and kind to children. Today, he is a jolly folk hero all children dream about on Christmas Eve. Santa Claus embodies childhood innocence, magical delight, love and generosity.

Hand-knit mittens were a traditional and popular gift at Christmas. Since mittens are only used in pairs, this Snowman Mitten is considered a "friendship ornament". Two ornaments, one for each special friend, signify a truly perfect match or pair.

Long ago, when toys were scarce and neighbors could be miles away, children looked forward to snowfalls with great anticipation. This wonderful gift from heaven afforded them the opportunity to create a new companion, their very own snowman.

Rabbits are very shy and frail animals. Having no natural means of protecting itself, the rabbit is therefore dependent on the kindness of man and other animals for its survival. At Christmastime the rabbit represents the renewal of this faith in others to provide guidance, protection and kindness.

This traditional and beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, it was delicately hand painted and glittered for you to enjoy and cherish as a holiday heirloom.

Long ago when parents decorated the Christmas Tree, they hung the pickle ornament last, hiding it in the green boughs. When the children were allowed to view the tree, they began searching for the pickle ornament because the first to find it would receive an extra gift from St. Nicholas for being the most observant child.

Growing on majestic firs and pine trees, cones are natural decorations. They were among the very first molded glass ornaments made. Cones were believed to be symbols of mother-hood and fertility, so they were given to brides to hang on their Christmas trees.

Luna, the Crescent Shape, is an ancient symbol for women. So outhouses has a "moon" cut into the door to mark the ladies side, while the men's side had a "sun". As time passed, the men's privies fell into disrepair and eventually were abandoned, while the better kept women's outhouses remained.

The Man in the Moon lives in legends of many cultures. The Inuits believe the Man in the Moon is the keeper of the souls of men and animals. In China, the Man in the Moon is the god of love and marriage, who unites lovers by tying them together with invisible cords.

One of the most dearly loved toys is the Teddy Bear, who has provided years of comfort and steadfast companionship to many a young owner. From the Cinnamon Bear to Winnie-the-Pooh, friendly bears live in literature and in the hearts of all children.

Since the turtle carries its home on its back, it is at home anywhere. When threatened, it can withdraw into its shell to protect itself. The turtle ornament reminds us of the security that hearth and home offer.

Apples were the traditional Christian symbol of temptation. Apples were hung on evergreen trees during the presentation of the Paradise plays in medieval times and used during the reenactment of the story of Adam and Eve on Christmas Eve to reinforce the meaning of Christ's birth.

Golf, as we know it, was first played with a leather-covered ball stuffed with goose feathers. In the early 1900's the golf ball evolved into the form as we know it today. However, it was not until 1932 that the golf ball was standardized to weigh a maximum of 1.62 ounces and possesses a diameter of not less than 1.68 inches.

The quick and agile chipmunk is a small, brownish, ground dwelling squirrel typically 5 to 6 inches long. According to Native American folklore, it got its stripes when escaping from a bear whose long sharp claws left long pale scars on the little chipmunk's back.

Throughout history, dogs have been faithful workmates adn companion. They selflessly give humans their love and loyalty. Cocker Spaniels are cheerful, sensitive, gentle and trusting, making them great family pets. They enjoy their status as "man's best friend".

Bees are very industrious and its takes all the bees in the hive working together to produce the honey and insure the hive's survival. This Bee ornament reminds us that diligence and teamwork are often necessary to achieve life's great rewards.

Fish are a common thread connecting numerous stories in the Bible, and today their symbol focuses on the religious origins of Christmas. Fish signify Christ's miracles and like Christ, provide nourishment and sustain life. Fish represent the messages of the Christmas season - renewal of life, rejuvenation and love.

Long ago, when toys were scarce and neighbors could be miles away, children looked forward to snowfalls with great anticipation. This wonderful gift from heaven afforded them the opportunity to create a new companion - their very own snowman.

"Gone Fishing" are an angler's favorite words. The beautiful rainbow trout is one of the most popular sport fish. However, fishing isn't just the thrill of a tight line with a strong fish on, but a sport that teaches patience, respect for the environment and gives insight into the value of life.

Long ago, when toys were scarce and neighbors could be miles away, children looked forward to snowfalls with great anticipation. This wonderful gift from heaven afforded them the opportunity to create a new companion - their very own snowman.

According to legend, bells rang throughout the world when Christ was born. Traditionally, bells have been used throughout Europe and America to ring in the Christmas season. Bell ornaments symbolize the joy and merriment of the Christmas Holidays.

According to legend, bells rand throughout the world when Christ was born. Traditionally, bells have been used throughout Europe and America to ring in the Christmas season. Bell ornaments symbolize the joy and merriment of the Christmas Holidays.

The Nutcracker Suite tells the story of Clara, who is given a nutcracker for Christmas. She falls asleep and dreams it has come to life. After a battle with the Mouse King, Clara and her Nutcracker Prince travel through a snowy forest to the magical Kingdom of Sweets where they meet the lovely Sugar Plum Fairy.

Halloween has its origins in the ancient festival of Samhain, the Celtic New Year, when spirits were allowed to return to earth to visit. Christianity incorporated this into All Hallow's Eve, Oct. 31, prior to Halloween to America in the 1840s, with the tradition of dressing in costumes and playing pranks in the hope of keeping evil spirits away.